Lesley Arthur

Since graduating from Glasgow School of Art in 1993 Lesley’s career has strongly focused on fostering creative approaches to support personal and social development, making a difference though the arts, and contributing to the health & wellbeing of communities. 

She has 30 years’ experience in leadership, executive and people management roles and holds qualifications with Common Purpose, ILM Leadership & Management, & Diploma in Business Administration.

Her career within Reachout began in 2002 when she joined the small charity in the role of Fundraising Development Worker. As she increased revenue and widened the service to include people living with learning and physical disability her role progressed to Project Manager, managing multiple funding streams and projects. In 2010 she became Chief Executive Officer as she co-founded and established Reachout trading arm Art’n’Mind - The Makers Gallery & Bistro. Under Lesley’s leadership the charity and trading arm has gained international recognition and received multiple awards.

The legacy of the trading arm enabled Reachout to focus on integrated and accessible socially engaged high quality creative programmes.

Lesley is responsible for the strategic management and direction of Reachout including social enterprise, partnership projects and collaborative Initiatives. Developing core business strategies, facilitating new business developments, whilst providing operational and personnel support ensuring continued functionality and sustainability of the charity.

Prior to Reachout Lesley was previously employed by - Clackmannanshire Council Education Team as Childrens Development Officer leading creative play provision for primary school children. Responsible for after school clubs, holiday and play provision. B.O.S.S. Coordinator (Bowmar Out of School Care) Managing a primary out of school support facility including financial management and operation of all staff, volunteers, children, and activities programming. Arts Coordinator Clackmannanshire Council facilitating peripatetic therapeutic arts programmes for elderly adults including stroke, visually impaired and dementia clients.

Out with work Lesley enjoys the outdoors, family time, her little dog Milli and absorbing contemporary art and culture.